The event marked the reopening of one of Downtown Paragould’s most iconic structures now revitalized as a central resource for business support, community development, and strategic collaboration.
Constructed in the early 1900s, the building originally operated as Kimbrough Dry Goods, welcoming families from across the region and serving as a cornerstone of early commercial growth. In the decades that followed, it housed multiple well known furniture businesses and professional offices, maintaining a long tradition of serving the people of Paragould. After standing vacant for many years, the structure has now been fully restored to preserve its historic character while preparing it for modern use.
“Restoring this building is not only an investment in history, but also an investment in Paragould’s future,” said Allison Hestand, CEO of the Paragould Regional Chamber of Commerce. “This space strengthens our mission by bringing key organizations under one roof, improving access to resources, and creating an environment where business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community partners can work together more effectively.”
The restored building now serves as the shared home of Paragould Regional Chamber of Commerce, Paragould Forward, Main Street Paragould, Paragould Chamber Foundation, and the newly formed Paragould Convention & Visitors Bureau.
By uniting these organizations in one location, the facility enhances coordination, streamlines services for local businesses, and creates a visible hub of economic and community development activity in the heart of Downtown Paragould. The new space will support business recruitment and retention, encourage entrepreneurship, expand community programming, and strengthen the overall climate for growth.
Following the ribbon cutting, guests enjoyed refreshments and tours of the facility, celebrating both the building’s reopening and its renewed role as a cornerstone of the business community.
